Bookshelf with handy side cupboard in iroko laminated with other exciting timbers

A number of people have told me that although my boxes are nice, they aren’t actually much use (thanks for that), so I’ve made this. It’s a small bookshelf suitable for a bedroom or study (I would say). The thing seems to have been around and rather in the way for aeons; this job has been delayed time and time again as other tasks have come in, with the result that it’s taken about 18 months to complete.

The main shelf is dowelled in for two different standard paperback sizes. The little shelf in the side cupboard is adjustable using brassed plug in supports. Fairly obviously designed for wall-hanging, I’ve fitted glass plates and made a supporting batten (in ash as I had a suitable off-cut).

To be honest the piece was supposed to be in iroko, but I quickly realised I hadn’t got enough – whoops! So I laminated up off-cuts of other hardwoods to make up the difference and hope this doesn’t look gross. There are no mistakes, only design alterations. I’ve finished it with Danish oil and and buffed it up with some bees wax polish.

Boxes are fun to make and I like them. But I really don’t need them. That’s not to say anything bad about your work. Jewelry boxes and other special purpose boxes have a real use. People are going to part with their money when they can imagine a use.

Think of you boxes as more of art. Noboby needs art in their home, but if they have the space and the money, then they might buy it.

Nice shelf, by the way.

-- Measure it with a micrometer, mark it with chalk, cut it with an axe.